How can I shoot a time-lapse on a Canon 7D without buying an intervalometer?
Asked 10/30/2012
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I want to shoot a time-lapse with a Canon 7D without purchasing a separate intervalometer. What software options are available, and do they require the camera to stay connected to a computer over USB? Are there any major downsides compared with a dedicated intervalometer, such as battery drain or reliability issues? Also, does using software affect the final image quality?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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You can do it using Magic Lantern software for your Canon. In fact, there's a setting that will save you some shutter opens/closes.
The camera does not need to be connected to the computer. There is no real danger to the camera. Depending on how long the timelapse is, you may need to have the camera on a power supply, or use a battery grip with extra batteries.
Using the Magic Lantern software is straight forward, just follow the instructions. http://magiclantern.wikia.com/wiki/Magic_Lantern_Firmware_Wiki
Originally by user11709. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11709
13y ago
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Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes. For a Canon 7D, common software-based options mentioned are Canon EOS Utility (with the camera connected by USB to a computer) and Magic Lantern (running on the camera, so no computer connection is required). EOS Utility can be convenient for very long shoots because you can store files on the computer, monitor images more easily, and adjust settings during the session. Magic Lantern is a popular in-camera option and avoids needing a laptop nearby.
There’s no inherent image-quality penalty from using software to trigger the shots; quality depends on your camera settings, exposure consistency, focus, and how you assemble the time-lapse afterward.
Main downsides are practical ones: battery life, needing a computer if you use EOS Utility, and making sure focus and exposure stay stable over a long sequence. For longer shoots, external power or a battery grip can help. If you use a lens with a manual-focus ring, securing it so focus doesn’t drift is also wise.
One note: CHDK is generally associated with Canon point-and-shoot cameras, not a 7D DSLR.
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